The Consortium of Machining Education Training (CoMeT) is a hybrid work-based apprenticeship program where students attend classes two days a week while simultaneously working for an industry partner. This "earn while you learn" education model combines cutting-edge curriculum that supports advanced manufacturing technology and paid working experience. Students also learn highly sought after business principles and best practices of a world class manufacturer.
Paid Work Component
The employer will pay the apprentice at least the applicable federal, state and local minimum wage, describe the wage progression requirements to the apprentice and describe the apprentice’s opportunity to gain mobility in the industry.
Work-Based Learning & Mentorship
While learning on the job, the program will provide a mentor to support the apprentice and provide guidance on the industry or company culture as well as workplace policies and procedures.
Safety, Supervision & Equal Opportunity
The program will ensure adequate and safe equipment and facilities for training and supervision. Safety training will be provided for the apprentice while on the job and in related technical instruction. Ensure there are qualified training personnel and adequate on-the-job supervision.
Educational and Instructional Component
The program will provide high-quality instruction and adequate training space and resources to help the apprentice achieve their proficiency goals or earn credentials or certifications. Credentialing information will be provided by Gadsden State.
Industry-Recognized Credential
The program must provide the apprentice the opportunity to earn an industry-recognized credential. A certificate or degree earned through completion of the program at Gadsden State is widely considered to be one of the most valuable industry-recognized credentials.
Attire
To be work by student while on campus and/or any Gadsden State function:
- Collared shirt provided by Gadsden State with CoMeT logo
- Shirt tucked in with a belt
- Long pants suitable for the precision machining trade (abide by any regulations set by OSHA or any other safety governing body)
- Boots / Industrial shoes: Steel-toe if required by the industry
- Clothes and shoes must be properly laundered, understanding that precision machining can often lead to staining and exceed normal wear and tear.
- Hair must be clean and well groomed. Long hair must be pulled back and secured to ensure safety standards are met.
Attendance
Students are required to arrive 15 minutes early to work and school
Safety Circle
Students will be required to participate in a safety circle at the beginning of each school day. Lack of participation will result in deducted points from safety circle grade.
- Apply to be a student at Gadsden State
- Complete the CoMeT application (Application for the Fall 2025 cohort opens Oct. 1)
- Submit copies of high school transcripts and college transcripts (if applicable)
- Complete an essay that contains the following topics:
- Student Background
- Any MTT or CTE classes they have completed
- Why do they want to be a part of CoMeT?
- Applicants participate in industry interviews
Current MTT students will be given program entry priority and will participate in a Reverse Job Fair. Students can begin working Spring 2025.
- Worked for Adderhold Cabinet Shop before operating CNC and manual equipment at Associated Metal Cast
- Operated manual equipment and programmed CNC equipment at Parker Hannifin, where he was later named the high-performance team leader
- Proficient in the set-up and operation of lathes; vertical and horizontal milling machines; vertical and horizontal saws; drill presses; tool and cutter grinders; surface grinders; cylindrical grinders; hydraulic presses and optical comparators.
- Graduated from Central Alabama Community College with an associate degree in Occupational Technology and Machine Shop / CNC / Tool and Die
DANIEL ANDERSON
East Broad Campus, Machine Technology Building
danderson@gadsdenstate.edu
256-549-8644
- Started career as a tool-and-die maker for Tenneco Inc.
- Hired as a Precision Machining instructor at Gadsden State in 2022
- Proficient in machining instruction; manual and CNC milling; precision grinding; welding; blueprint reading; CAD/CAM programming and tool design
- Summa cum laude graduate from Gadsden State with a degree in Precision Machining
- Awarded certifications from the National Institute of Metalworking Skills and Hass Automation
- Master naturalist certification from the University of Florida
- Serves as an advisor for Skills USA
CoMeT Contacts
Alan Smith
Dean of Workforce Development
asmith@gadsdenstate.edu
256-549-8601
Andy Robertson
Coordinator of Workforce Development
arobertson@gadsdenstate.edu
256-549-8615 or 256-835-5427
DISCRIMINATION POLICY: Industry partners and Gadsden State will not discriminate against apprenticeship applicants based on race, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), sexual orientation, genetic information or because they are an individual with a disability or a person 40 years or older.